Johannesburg, South Africa — January 16, 2026 At least 10 people have been killed and over 200 others rescued following torrential rains that triggered severe flooding in northeastern South Africa, officials confirmed.
The disaster has forced the closure of the renowned Kruger National Park, a key wildlife tourism destination, as the region continues to grapple with the impact of extreme weather.
The South African Weather Service has issued the highest rainfall warning for parts of the country, including the vicinity of the Kruger National Park, where the flooding has been particularly severe.
Neighbouring Mozambique has also been placed on high alert due to the flooding, with roads and homes inundated. Nine people died in a village in Limpopo province, close to the Kruger Park, according to a provincial spokesperson.
Images released by the South African National Defence Force depicted a military helicopter rescuing stranded residents from trees.
In Mpumalanga province, rescuers recovered the body of a woman who drowned while attempting to cross a river. At least 19 people have died in Mpumalanga since the rains began in November. President Cyril Ramaphosa visited Limpopo on Thursday to assess the extent of the damage and the government’s response.
The Kruger National Park, which suspended day — visitor access on Thursday, had to evacuate six bush camps and some tented camps, the park’s communications director, Rey Thakuli, told AFP.
In Mozambique, authorities have begun evacuating residents from low — lying areas due to high water levels.
The Mozambique meteorology department warned of more heavy rains, accompanied by thunderstorms and gusty winds, expected in the coming days, including in the capital Maputo.
The heavy rains in South Africa are attributed to a weather pattern that has caused similar issues across the region. This year’s summer, characterized by its extremes, is seen as a foretaste of the climate impacts that could follow if action is not taken. James Reeler, senior climate specialist at WWF South Africa, emphasized the need for immediate action in a statement.
The situation remains developing, with further details expected as the situation unfolds.
.
Source: Floodings kill at least 10 in South Africa, triggering the closure of Kruger Park — Africanews.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
